Grief Digest Articles

“At least…”As a grief counselor, educator and Pastor, every time I hear someone start a sentence with “at least,” I have to cringe. I thought I had heard every “at least” there was. “At least you knew he was ill,” “At least he didn’t suffer.” “At least you have other children.” I often tell my clients that all of those “At leasts” are offered in the way of comfort, most often to the person who is offering them. “At least” says that, despite the awfulness, there must be something redeemable about …

I often write about how grief has changed me, how loss has heightened my sensitivity to my surroundings, to others, to life itself. It is never more apparent than when I listen to a meaningful song or see a beautiful landscape. I often think about how my awareness and perception has been altered, and how others may view or hear the very same things I do, yet the meaning is lost on them. Am I simply hypersensitive or are others missing it? In loss, do we become gifted with the ability to view the …

There is a quote that states “Don’t look back. You aren’t going that way.” That’s good advice for many circumstances in our lives. However, sometimes looking back is also a way to understand how far you’ve come; the accomplishments you’ve made especially under duress; and the power of “Hope” in becoming someone different than planned.In 2018, Wings celebrated its 25th anniversary of the non-profit organization. It was a year of looking back and remembering, not with sadness, but rather with surp …

“We must be willing to let go of the life we planned, so we can accept the life that is waiting for us.” (Joseph Campbell)There is nothing more difficult than holding onto hope after tragic or challenging life events. But, it’s also the most important thing we can do for ourselves. Hope is the one thing in our lives that can sustain us through the tears, uncertainty, and difficult days while we find peace with our situation.Gary and I clung to the vision of hope through many years when we were t …

Such a rare indulgence of burgers and fries enjoyed with our ten- and twelve-year-old nephews, followed by a brisk walk. My husband and I love hanging with them, allowing us old folks to once again be kids. We joked, laughed and talked with the boys while simultaneously picked forsythia, apple and cherry blossoms from the many flowering trees. Both boys picked beautiful arrangements. Johnny being the oldest smiled and said, "These are for my mother." Nick perked up saying, “Can these be for Laur …